Gift launches new campaign as LMCJ enters its second decade

BALTIMORE, Md. — Before much of Baltimore settles into the rhythm of a new school year, students at The Lillie May Carroll Jackson School (LMCJ) returned today for the start of the 2026–2027 school year. This year, the school entered its second decade with its Passing of the Lilly ceremony, a transformative $2.8 million philanthropic gift, and the launch of a new fundraising campaign. 

The gift to Girls Charter School, Inc., the nonprofit organization that operates LMCJ, allowed the organization to substantially reduce the mortgage on the school’s historic home, the former Laurence G. Paquin School, strengthening LMCJ’s financial foundation as it plans for its next decade. 

“This gift is a powerful expression of belief in our community, staff, scholars and in the enduring importance of this institution,” said Dr. Kristina Kyles-Smith, CEO of Girls Charter School, Inc. “It allows us to care for a historic home where generations of Baltimore’s young women have been seen, supported, and encouraged to shape their own futures.” 

The $2.8 million gift also serves as the catalyst for a broader fundraising campaign focused on strengthening LMCJ for its next chapter and expanding what is possible for the girls it serves. 

“As we welcome our scholars back for a new school year, Lillie May is also entering its second decade,” said Monica E. Mitchell, Board Chair of Girls Charter School, Inc. “After ten years of demonstrating what is possible when Baltimore’s girls are surrounded by high expectations, deep support and a community committed to their success, this extraordinary $2.8 million gift marks a defining moment for our school. It is both an affirmation of what we have built and a catalyst for what comes next.” 

LMCJ opened the school year this morning with its signature Passing of the Lilly ceremony, during which returning scholars welcomed new students into a sisterhood grounded in history, leadership and responsibility. The tradition honors the legacy of Dr. Lillie May Carroll Jackson, the Baltimore educator and civil rights leader for whom the school is named. 

LMCJ’s home also holds an important place in Baltimore’s educational history. The building was formerly home to the Laurence G. Paquin School, founded in 1966 to ensure that pregnant and parenting girls could continue their education. Under longtime principal Dr. Rosetta Stith, Paquin became a nationally recognized model of education and support for young mothers, serving generations of Baltimore women before closing in 2010. 

Today, LMCJ carries that legacy forward, with a new generation of Baltimore girls learning, growing, and preparing to lead in the same halls. 

About Lillie May Carroll Jackson School 

The Lillie May Carroll Jackson School is a Baltimore City public charter school serving girls in grades 5–8. LMCJ provides a supportive, 21st-century learning environment where scholars can reach their maximum potential through rigorous academics, character development and leadership opportunities. The school envisions a world where all young women, regardless of background, possess the skills, tools and qualities necessary to lead in their communities and throughout the world. 

About Girls Charter School, Inc. 

Girls Charter School, Inc. is the nonprofit charter operator of the Lillie May Carroll Jackson School. 

Media Contact: 

Dr. Kristina Kyles-Smith 

kristina.ksmith@lilliemay.org 

443-920-4944